St. James Theatre

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Uploaded on: October 31, 2026

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For their launch into MGM film exhibition the Fullers decided to feature an orchestra on the program providing live music as an overture to proceedings and at Interval for the Deluxe 2pm and 8pm performances. Conductor Eric Mareo (1890-1960) and his Ladies Symphony Orchestra (shown top) were engaged at the opening of “Politics” and continued for nine months until 29 September 1932. Mareo then toured New Zealand in 1933 establishing the Mareo Symphony Orchestra in November. In Auckland he married Thelma Trott an attractive young Australian soprano who he met when they were both members of the Ernest Rolls Revue Company. In 1934 he formed the Mareo Operatic Society featuring his wife in leading roles. On April 15, 1935 he was accused of killing his wife by poisoning. In February 1936 he was sentenced to death for her murder. A few months later this was commuted to life. In May 1948 he was released from Auckland prison, married his prison masseuse 3 weeks later, changed his name, and lived quietly until his death in 1960.